Sanjay Raut Slams BJP over Vidarbha Separation Stance
Mumbai, Dec. 13 -- Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut has strongly criticized BJP leader and Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule for his recent statement advocating for the creation of a separate state of Vidarbha out of Maharashtra. Raut's remarks come in response to Bawankule's assertion that the Fadnavis government is in favor of carving out a new state from Maharashtra.
Recently, Bawankule had stated, 'Our stand regarding a separate Vidarbha state remains unchanged. We are working for it. Even the Congress has raised the issue of a separate Vidarbha state. It is on the BJP's agenda. We have been working for it since the beginning. Devendra Fadnavis has also taken a stand in favor of a separate Vidarbha so far. The BJP is in favor of a separate Vidarbha state.'
Raut, a prominent voice within the Shiv Sena, vehemently opposed these statements, emphasizing the historical and cultural ties between Vidarbha and the rest of Maharashtra. 'The BJP cannot separate Vidarbha from Maharashtra. It is an integral part of our state, and any attempt to divide it will not be tolerated,' Raut said. He further added that such divisive rhetoric only serves to create unnecessary tension and discord among the people of Maharashtra.
The demand for a separate Vidarbha state has been a contentious issue for decades. Proponents argue that the region, which includes districts like Nagpur, Amravati, and Yavatmal, has been neglected by the state government and requires greater autonomy to address its developmental needs. However, opponents, including Raut, contend that such a move would undermine the unity and progress of Maharashtra as a whole.
Senior Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar also weighed in on the debate, stating that while the Congress party has raised the issue of a separate Vidarbha state, it is committed to a comprehensive and inclusive approach to development that benefits all regions of Maharashtra. 'We believe in addressing the grievances of Vidarbha through inclusive policies and not by dividing the state,' Wadettiwar said.
The controversy over Vidarbha's status has once again brought to the forefront the complexities of regional politics in Maharashtra. While the BJP's stance on a separate state has garnered support from some quarters, it has also faced significant opposition from political leaders and local communities who value the unity and diversity of Maharashtra.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the state government and various political parties will navigate the delicate balance between addressing regional disparities and maintaining the integrity of Maharashtra. The coming months are likely to see increased discussions and possibly even protests as the issue gains more traction in the political arena.
In conclusion, Sanjay Raut's strong opposition to the BJP's stance on a separate Vidarbha state underscores the deep divisions within Maharashtra's political landscape. The debate is likely to continue, with various stakeholders voicing their opinions and concerns. The ultimate resolution of this issue will have significant implications for the future of Maharashtra and its regions.
